Freedom Scientific Training Podcast

In this episode, Liz shows you how to use PlaceMarkers in JAWS to mark locations and select text in Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and on web pages. You will learn about temporary versus permanent PlaceMarkers and different scenarios where using them can increase productivity and proficiency.

In this episode, Ron Miller from Freedom Scientific's training team highlights key updates in the May 2025 releases of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. Learn about the new Home and Professional subscription plans, major MathCAT enhancements for speech and Braille math accessibility, UEB math support, and improved navigation options. Ron also demonstrates how to use the new AI-based UI Labeler, enhanced split Braille features, and Live Text View in ZoomText and Fusion. Whether you're a student, professional, or accessibility enthusiast, this episode guides you through the most impactful new features and how to try them out.

Whether you're new to Windows 11 or upgrading soon, this episode offers ten essential tips for navigating the new environment using JAWS. Join Liz and Rachel as they demonstrate how to manage notifications, set focus sessions, access system settings, create desktop shortcuts, pin apps to the Start menu, and more. You'll also learn how to use File Explorer's updated toolbar, change default applications, and manage running tasks efficiently. This episode is packed with practical guidance to help screen reader users feel confident in Windows 11.

In this episode, we explore how to effectively manage your browsing history in Google Chrome using JAWS. Learn how to access, navigate, and search your browser history, as well as how to delete it selectively using advanced settings. We also dive into browser history display quirks, explain how to use table navigation and link lists with JAWS, and demonstrate how to search directly from the Chrome address bar. Plus, get an introduction to Chrome extensions that enhance history management, including how to install, manage, and toggle them. Whether you're cleaning up your digital trail or just trying to find that one page you visited last week, this episode has the tools and tips you need.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Insert J Club—a new community initiative from Freedom Scientific designed to bring users of JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion even closer to the people behind the technology. In this special launch event, team members share personal stories of how assistive technology has shaped their lives and careers, from education and employment to hobbies and personal passions. You'll also learn what the Insert J Club is all about, how you can get involved, and what exclusive benefits await members. Join the Insert J Club today at www.freedomscientific.com/insertjclub/

In this episode of 20 Minute Tech Tips, Liz demonstrates how to use the JAWS Text Analyzer to proofread documents more effectively. Learn how to detect and correct common inconsistencies like double spaces, stray punctuation, unmatched parentheses, and formatting issues when working in Microsoft Word. Liz walks through enabling and customizing Text Analyzer settings, using quick keyboard commands to navigate errors, and applying Text Analyzer to finalize documents and blog posts. Plus, discover how to toggle the feature on and off for a streamlined proofreading experience. Stay tuned at the end for updates about the Insert J Club and upcoming Freedom Scientific training events!

Join Liz and Rachel as they dive into six essential tasks in the new Outlook experience, including searching for messages, working with attachments, spell checking, flagging emails, and managing signatures. Whether you're transitioning from classic Outlook or exploring new features, this episode offers step-by-step guidance and JAWS tips to streamline your email workflow.

In this episode, Ron Miller from Vispero provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the Freedom Scientific Licensing Portal for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion annual licenses. Learn how to activate your software, set up your portal account, register a new device, and manage or transfer licenses between computers. Whether you're a new user or need a refresher on handling subscriptions, this hands-on guide offers step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your assistive technology is always ready to go. For additional training and resources, visit freedomscientific.com/training.

In this episode of 20 Minute Tech Tips, Liz and Rachel introduce exciting new enhancements to FSCompanion—Freedom Scientific's AI-powered learning tool for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion. Learn how to open FSCompanion using Voice Assistant and how to ask questions with your voice using the new Dictate button. Whether you're brushing up on keyboard commands or navigating Microsoft Office apps, FSCompanion makes learning more accessible than ever. Plus, hear about the new Insert J Club and upcoming events!

In this episode, Liz and Rachel dive deep into using the OneDrive desktop app with JAWS. Whether you're organizing files, creating folders, or collaborating with colleagues, this episode will guide you step-by-step through best practices for managing your OneDrive environment efficiently. You'll learn how to customize File Explorer views, use key commands for navigation, rename or move files, and leverage version history to recover lost changes. Plus, we'll show you how to securely share files both internally and externally—with the right permissions. Don't forget to check out the free Insert J Club for JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion users at freedomscientific.com/insertjclub for exclusive training content and community perks!

Join Ron Miller as he discusses a few infightful tips on using Speech and Sound Schemes in JAWS for Microsoft Word. Learn how to customize speech settings, sound cues, and formatting feedback to enhance productivity and accessibility. Whether you're working on documents for home or work, this episode will help you navigate Word with greater efficiency. Tune in for expert insights and practical demonstrations tailored for JAWS users.

Join us for an in-depth look at JAWS advanced reading features, designed to help you navigate long documents, web pages, and virtualized windows with ease. Learn how to: ✔️ Use skim reading to quickly scan text and extract key information ✔️ Virtualize windows and controls for better accessibility and control ✔️ Leverage word lists to identify frequently used terms and improve navigation Whether you're a JAWS user, an instructor, or just looking to improve your screen reader efficiency, this episode is packed with practical tips to boost your productivity.

In this episode, host Liz Whitaker walks you through creating desktop shortcuts to apps, files, and web pages using JAWS in Windows 11. Whether you're looking to streamline your workflow or make navigation more accessible, this episode provides step-by-step instructions to help you get there. Tune in and simplify your accessible tech experience!

Join us for an in-depth walkthrough of the new Outlook with JAWS! In this episode, we explore key navigation techniques, accessibility improvements, and essential keyboard commands designed to enhance your experience with the newly updated Outlook 365. Learn how to switch between folders, manage emails efficiently, and take advantage of JAWS-specific commands for seamless navigation. Whether you're transitioning from Classic Outlook or starting fresh, this episode is packed with tips to boost your productivity. For more training resources, visit FreedomScientific.com/webinars

Join Ron Miller from the Freedom Scientific training team as he dives deep into JAWS BrailleIn techniques. Learn how to efficiently use modifier keys, master cord commands, and navigate Windows using the Braille keyboard. Whether you're new to JAWS or looking to refine your skills, this episode covers everything from function key shortcuts to contracted Braille settings. Tune in and take your accessibility expertise to the next level! For more training resources, visit FreedomScientific.com/training

Want to get the most out of your Focus Blue Braille Display? In this episode, Ron Miller from the Vispero Training Department walks you through six powerful customization options to enhance your Focus Blue Braille experience with JAWS. What You'll Learn: Turning Status Cells On and Off Showing Time Display Turn Highlighting On and Off Flash Messages: On and Off Duration and Verbosity Setting Clock and Calendar on Focus Whether you're a longtime Focus Blue user or just getting started, these tips will help you optimize your setup for better accessibility and efficiency. Want more training content? Check out FreedomScientific.com/training for expert tutorials and upcoming events!

Tips for Using your NLS eReader with JAWS – A Braille Literacy Month Special Join us for an insightful episode on maximizing the potential of your NLS eReader with JAWS, featuring special guest Tamara Rory from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS). Learn how to obtain and navigate NLS eReaders, understand their key features, and explore how they enhance access to Braille books, BARD, NFB Newsline, and Bookshare. Tamara also shares expert tips on connecting your eReader to JAWS for seamless computer use. Whether you're new to eReaders or looking to refine your skills, this episode is packed with valuable guidance to support your Braille reading journey.

January is Braille Literacy Month! Discover how to enhance your JAWS experience with customizable flash messages and status cells. In this episode, Ron Miller explores essential settings in the JAWS Settings Center, including tailoring flash message behavior, optimizing verbosity levels, and making status cells display the information you need. Whether you're navigating with Braille displays or seeking clarity in your workflow, this guide is packed with tips for every user.    

In this episode, we share 10 essential tips for boosting your productivity with JAWS and Braille. Discover how to leverage features like Braille Study Mode, setting the clock, navigating tasks, and maintaining your Focus Braille Display for maximum efficiency. Celebrate Braille Literacy Month with us and discover valuable resources to enhance your skills. Don't miss these practical insights for optimizing your Braille experience!

In this pre-recorded webinar, we will cover the following topics: Use FSCompanion to Perform a task in Excel Create a Quick Nav Key for navigating slider controls Manage Calls in Teams Use Convenient OCR to recognize text in context Use Picture Smart Al to describe an image attachment in Outlook XFont Save settings in Fusion and ZoomText by default Email thread navigation with Fusion Picture Smart Al Mouse Mode True Center Tracking

In this final episode of 2024, we explore the December updates to JAWS, ZoomText, and Fusion 2025. Join Ron Miller and Liz Whitaker as they discuss exciting new features like FS Companion, enhanced Convenient OCR, and Picture Smart AI. Learn how these tools simplify accessibility and productivity with their AI-driven enhancements. Plus, get a sneak peek at what's in store for 2025. Don't miss this wrap-up to an incredible year in assistive technology!

In this episode, Ron Miller explores the ins and outs of track changes, co-authoring features, and effective commenting to streamline teamwork on Word documents. Whether you're editing in real-time or reviewing suggested changes, learn how to make your workflow more efficient and accessible. Perfect for students, professionals, and anyone working on shared documents. Tune in to boost your Word collaboration skills today!  

In this episode, Ron Miller dives into the world of AI with a focus on Microsoft Copilot and FS Companion. Discover the differences between free and paid AI tools, their practical applications, and tips for leveraging AI in productivity, creativity, and technical support. Ron also introduces FS Companion, a tailored AI for Freedom Scientific, providing insights into its features and functionality for JAWS and other tools. Whether you're new to AI or an experienced user, this episode offers valuable insights and a practical demonstration of how these technologies can simplify your day-to-day tasks from a JAWS user perspective.

Explore the world of JAWS and refreshable braille displays with episode 12 of the Freedom Scientific Training Resources Podcast. Hosted by Ron Miller, this episode offers hands-on guidance for assistive technology instructors, teachers, and anyone looking to enhance their skills in teaching JAWS. Learn how to install and configure braille displays, utilize the Braille and Text Viewer, and master Braille Study Mode. Perfect for educators and professionals in assistive tech, this podcast transforms comprehensive training modules into convenient audio lessons. Listen now to empower your teaching journey!

Welcome to 20 Minute Tech Tips by Freedom Scientific, the podcast where we break down accessibility features and tech tasks into bite-sized, actionable episodes. In this episode, we explore 'Five Ways to Use the JAWS Table Layer.' Learn how to efficiently navigate and interact with tables across web pages, Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, and even unconventional table-like layouts in Outlook. Discover how to maximize the JAWS table layer for improved productivity, all in just 20 minutes. Perfect for JAWS users looking to enhance their navigation skills and streamline workflows!

Discover the latest innovations in accessibility technology with Freedom Scientific's webinar on 'New Features of JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText 2025.' Join Liz and Rachel as they explore groundbreaking updates, including the AI-powered FS Companion, enhanced automatic language detection, and improved navigation for Epub books. Learn about multi-monitor functionality, app responsiveness, and the revolutionary Picture Smart AI Mouse Mode in Fusion, tailored for low-vision users. Whether you're navigating Microsoft Office, tackling visual challenges, or seeking seamless transitions in your workflow, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to elevate your accessibility experience.

In this episode, hosts Liz and Rachel welcome back special guest Dan Clark, a former Freedom Scientific employee and overall JAWS expert who continues to make an impact in the accessibility community through training resources and website auditing. Listeners will benefit from a comprehensive guide to Gmail's label system, learning how to create, organize, and manage labels for better email efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned JAWS user or new to accessibility tools, this episode is full of valuable tips and practical demonstrations.

In this episode of the Training Resources Podcast, host Ron Miller dives into the JAWS Dictionary Manager. Designed for teachers and assistive technology instructors, this session covers practical steps for correcting word pronunciations, handling abbreviations, and even setting audio cues within JAWS. Listeners will learn how to manage pronunciation across multiple applications, create language-specific rules, and share customized dictionary settings with students or colleagues. This hands-on guide is perfect for those looking to enhance accessibility and improve JAWS functionality in the classroom.  

In this episode, we introduce you to FS Companion—a game-changing AI assistant designed to help JAWS users ask questions about JAWS-related tasks with ease and efficiency. Join hosts Liz and Rachel as they guide you through FS Companion's practical applications, from adjusting voice settings and navigating Microsoft Office tools to setting personalized preferences within JAWS. Perfect for accessibility advocates, tech enthusiasts, and anyone looking to streamline their workflow with JAWS, this podcast is your fast track to mastering FS Companion.

In this episode, Liz and Rachel guide you through managing files in Microsoft Teams with JAWS. You'll learn how to access, upload, share, and collaborate on files, including navigating the Files panel, searching for documents, and opening files in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint directly. We also explore sharing PowerPoint presentations in a way that enhances accessibility for assistive technology users, ensuring everyone can fully participate in meetings. Whether you're collaborating in teams, channels, or chats, this episode will help you manage your files efficiently and inclusively.

In this episode, Ron Miller walks us through working with styles in Microsoft Word using JAWS. He coversessential formatting tips, including how to change font types and sizes, apply styles without affecting headings, and make localized changes to selected text. Ron also shares best practices for low-vision users, explains how to create bulleted and numbered lists, and provides keyboard shortcuts for faster formatting. Tune in to learn about setting multi-level lists, headings, and adjusting font colors to enhance your document's organization and accessibility.

This episode of the Freedom Scientific Training Podcast, hosted by Ron Miller, focuses on using the F6 key to enhance productivity in Microsoft Office applications. Listeners will explore how the F6 key simplifies navigation across Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint, offering practical tips for quickly moving between different panes and boosting efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned user or new to these tools, this episode provides actionable insights to improve your workflow in Office 365 applications.

In this episode of 20-Minute Tech Tips, Elizabeth explores how to access untagged PDFs in Adobe Acrobat Reader using JAWS. Learn key steps to configure Acrobat Reader for accessibility, differentiate between tagged and untagged PDFs, and effectively navigate documents with JAWS. Perfect for users looking to enhance their PDF reading experience.

In this episode, Rachel and Elizabeth provide a comprehensive guide on how to use Google Drive with JAWS, focusing on the web version. They cover key topics such as navigating Google Drive using keyboard commands, creating and managing files and folders, uploading and downloading files, and sharing and organizing content. The podcast also includes practical demonstrations of how to access keyboard shortcuts, manage documents, and customize accessibility settings for an optimized experience with JAWS.

In this episode, trainers Ron Miller and Jeff Bazer provide a comprehensive guide on using Picture Smart AI to analyze images in Excel spreadsheets. Whether learning about trends in sales data or exploring pivot charts, this episode equips JAWS users with tips to enhance productivity and extract valuable information from inaccessible visuals within spreadsheets.

This episode covers essential skills for teachers and assistive technology instructors using JAWS and Braille. Host Ron Miller guides listeners through configuring JAWS startup settings, including Braille preferences, status cells, and flash messages. He also explains the importance of Braille literacy and demonstrates Braille Study Mode, a tool that helps users identify Braille symbols and contractions. The episode offers practical tips to enhance Braille teaching, empowering both instructors and students with independence and literacy skills.

In this episode of 20-Minute Tech Tips, you'll learn effective ways to find and use keyboard commands across different applications and operating systems. Whether you're using JAWS, ZoomText, Fusion, or just prefer keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow, this episode covers essential tips to access, search, and master these commands. From navigating the JAWS key options to finding shortcuts in Microsoft Word or Google Workspace, this episode is packed with practical advice to enhance your tech efficiency.

This podcast demonstrates how to create, modify, and use templates in Microsoft Word effectively with JAWS. Ron Miller, from the Vispero training department, explains what a template is and how it can streamline document creation by maintaining consistent formatting and styles. We also discuss the variety of templates available in Word, including those provided by Microsoft, and how to navigate and customize them for specific needs. The episode includes a step-by-step guide on creating a simple template and tips for ensuring accessibility and usability, particularly when dealing with complex elements like tables.

Portable Document Format (PDF) files are commonly used to share documents across platforms. These documents are widely used and often required in school and employment settings. They can include text and visuals such as images, charts, and tables to convey information. In this webinar recording, we provide an overview of the Acrobat Reader interface, discuss accessible versus inaccessible PDFs, and provide tips on how to create accessible PDFs. We'll show you how to: Install and set up Acrobat Reader Set preferences and accessibility settings Open PDFs in a web browser or Acrobat Reader Navigate and save a PDF Use JAWS Convenient OCR to read inaccessible PDFs

  This week's podcast provides an in-depth tutorial on using various cursors in JAWS. Liz discusses how JAWS Cursors function in both desktop and laptop keyboard layouts. Key Points Covered: JAWS Keyboard Layouts: Liz explains how users can switch between desktop and laptop layouts, emphasizing the use of the Caps Lock key as the JAWS key in laptop mode. PC Cursor: The system cursor used in text-based applications like Microsoft Word, allowing users to navigate and edit documents. Virtual PC Cursor: This cursor is used primarily on web pages and HTML documents, simulating the PC cursor to enable navigation and reading. It can be turned off in specific scenarios, like when using Google Docs. JAWS Cursor: This cursor allows users to explore parts of the screen that the PC cursor cannot reach, providing additional information and enabling mouse functionality without moving the system focus. Practical Commands: Liz demonstrates various keystrokes and commands to activate and use these cursors effectively, ensuring users can manage different scenarios where JAWS might not automatically choose the best cursor.

In this episode of "Teaching Resources with Ron Miller," we will explore the following topics: Making a Teams Call Starting a Video or Audio Call Answering a Teams Call Answering a Teams Call with Video Disabled or enabled Answering a Teams Call When focus is in another application Joining a Zoom meeting from an invitation email or calendar appointment Adjusting Zoom audio settings Selecting a speaker Select a microphone Muting/unmuting microphone in a Zoom meeting Disabling/enabling meeting alerts in Zoom Identify who is speaking in Zoom Raising and lowering hands in Zoom Leaving a Zoom meeting Opening, reading, and closing meeting paricipants list Chat panel Sending chats Reading chats  

In this episode of "20 Minute Tech Tips," we discuss the enhancements made to the Picture Smart AI feature in the July update of JAWS 2024. Picture Smart AI describes image content using AI technology like, ChatGPT and Claude. One significant addition is the "all-in-one" command, which simplifies obtaining image descriptions by recognizing the context of the file or application in focus. We demonstrate using these commands on different types of images, such as files, PowerPoint slides, and web graphics, highlighting how the tool adapts to various contexts.

Listen in to improve your online shopping experience with the Picture Smart AI feature in JAWS. We'll provide an overview of the feature, discuss new enhancements, and show you how to navigate popular shopping sites, search for products, and generate image descriptions to gain deeper insights about products. In addition, you'll learn how to: Get image descriptions when searching for products via search engines and on shopping sites Filter results according to your specifications Gain valuable details about products, such as the color or pattern of a shirt or the layout of the control panel in an electronic device Add a product to the shopping cart and check out Locate required fields to fill out during the checkout process

Are you looking for ways to navigate and manage Zoom meetings more efficiently with JAWS? Listen in to part two of this session of “Schedule and Manage Zoom Meetings with JAWS.” We'll show you how to perform several meeting-related tasks. Learn how to: Manage chat Share screen content Use Picture Smart AI to describe shared content Manage participants Use Face in View to verify camera setup Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker and Rachel Buchanan

Are you looking for ways to navigate and manage Zoom meetings more efficiently with JAWS? Listen in to part one of this session of “Schedule and Manage Zoom Meetings with JAWS.” We'll show you how to perform several meeting-related tasks. Learn how to: Schedule and join a meeting Access keyboard commands and settings Freedom Scientific Presenters: Elizabeth Whitaker and Rachel Buchanan

  In this Tech Tip, we provide a detailed walkthrough of the Microsoft Store. We explain how to use JAWS to access and navigate the store, search for apps, and utilize various features. We also cover the types of content available, including apps, games, and AI tools, and describe different ways to access the store, such as through the desktop shortcut, taskbar, and Windows search. Additionaly, we also discuss navigating with the PC cursor and virtual PC cursor. This episode includes step-by-step instructions on signing in, managing settings, updating apps, and using the search function to find specific apps or categories.

Listen in once again as Ron Miller discusses how JAWS users can utilize the Microsoft Search tool to enhance the Microsoft 365 Experience. Part one is also available if you haven't listened yet!

Listen in as Ron Miller discusses how JAWS users can utilize the Microsoft Search tool to enhance the Microsoft 365 Experience. Discussion topics include search in Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint. Part two is coming soon!    

In this episode of "Teaching Resources with Ron Miller," we will explore the following topics: Navigating the Microsoft Teams Interface Reading and Composing Chat Messages in Teams Joining Meetings in Teams Scheduling Meeting in Teams

In this podcast episode, Ron Miller provides detailed guidance on how to use Microsoft Word's features to organize files efficiently. The discussion begins with creating folders directly within Word, which many users typically do via File Explorer. Ron then explains the process of handling unsaved documents when Word crashes or closes unexpectedly. Get to know Word's auto-recovery system and how to navigate the recovery dialog to restore unsaved documents. You are walked through the steps to locate auto-recovered files, emphasizing the need to save these files promptly to avoid data loss. For advanced users, Ron explains how to find the default location of auto-saved files on a Windows 11 system, using keyboard shortcuts to navigate the Word options dialog. This episode is a practical guide for both novice and experienced Word users, aiming to minimize data loss and improve file management practices within the application.  

20 Minute Tech Tips is back with another episode on Picture Smart AI. This time, we're showcasing the new Chat feature, and demonstrating how conversing with Picture Smart AI can help you fine tune your description results! Freedom Scientific Unveils Revolutionary PictureSmart AI for JAWS – Transforming Accessibility with AI-Powered Image Descriptions Announcing the launch of PictureSmart AI, a groundbreaking feature in the JAWS screen reading software that leverages artificial intelligence to provide detailed descriptions of images. (St. Petersburg, Florida – March 06, 2024)Freedom Scientific, a leading provider of assistive technology for individuals with vision impairments, is proud to announce the launch of PictureSmart AI, a groundbreaking feature in the JAWS screen reading software that leverages artificial intelligence to provide detailed descriptions of images. This innovative update marks a significant leap forward in accessibility technology, offering never before seen support for visually impaired users navigating digital content with screen reading technology. Empowering Users with AI Technology PictureSmart AI, found in JAWS and as part of Fusion, represents a major enhancement over its prior version, utilizing advanced AI algorithms to analyze and articulate what's in images, including those found on web pages, in emails, or within screenshots. This feature is designed to address the challenges visually impaired users face when encountering graphical content, transforming the way they access and interact with digital information. “This feature is more than just an innovation; it's a gateway to untapped potential, allowing our users to use JAWS to interact with images and graphics in ways previously unimaginable,” said Ryan Jones, Vice President of Software and a JAWS user himself. “By weaving the latest AI technologies into JAWS, we are not just enhancing user experience; we are redefining what's possible in accessibility. PictureSmart AI is a significant step forward in our commitment to empowering individuals with vision impairments to navigate the digital world with the same ease and depth as everyone else. We are excited to see how this technology will open new doors for our users, fostering greater independence and enriching their digital interactions.” Breaking Down Barriers With PictureSmart AI, JAWS users can now explore a whole new world of digital content. From detailed descriptions of charts and diagrams to social media posts to insights into screenshots of application windows, PictureSmart AI removes the longstanding barrier between visually impaired users and graphical information, ensuring everyone can fully participate in the digital age. “In our initial testing phase, we've observed an incredible range of applications by our users,” remarked Roxana Fischer, Product Manager for Blind and Low Vision Software. “The introduction of PictureSmart AI has empowered them to embark on activities previously out of reach, from exploring family photos to actively participating in screen-shared presentations and even navigating complex diagrams at school. This diversity in usage underscores the transformative potential of PictureSmart AI.” Innovation Inspired by Users The development of PictureSmart AI underscores Freedom Scientific's commitment to innovation driven by user needs. By harnessing the power of AI, Freedom Scientific aims to enhance screen reading technology further, enabling users to navigate the digital world with greater ease and confidence. Availability and Continuous Improvement PictureSmart AI is available in the March update of JAWS and Fusion version 2024. Visit the JAWS 2024 release notes to learn more and see examples. Freedom Scientific is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring PictureSmart AI evolves to meet the needs of our diverse user base